The first of two pilot BE90 three day events will get underway at Bicton Arena next week, with well over 100 riders set to take on this exciting new opportunity sponsored by NAF.

It was announced earlier this year that Bicton Arena will pilot a BE90 Three Day Event in 2021 and 2022 as part of British Eventing’s commitment to continue the development of their grassroots offering. The decision to pilot these events follows member feedback and will be run with both BE90 and BE90 Open sections. The competition will include a dressage test in a 60m x 20m arena as well as a steeplechase phase. The rules for three day events are the same as those for one day events with the modifications set out here. 

“We have seen how successful the three day event format has been with riders at riding club level and also the BE100 three day events, so we believed this would be popular offering with BE’s grassroots riders,” said Helen White, a member of the BE Rider Working Group who has been championing the introduction of this competition format.

“We have to remember that for many eventing is a hobby, so it needs that feel-good factor. Competing away for several days with your horse provides a more wholesome and social experience. It is the opportunity to take your horse away and have a bit of a holiday, isn’t it! I am entered myself and I can’t wait.”

Helen also feels that it was important to pick the right venue. “I felt quite strongly that this competition ought to run alongside the BE100 three day to provide the right atmosphere – and there is also the added benefit of the 2* and 3* classes also running at Bicton. This enables more grassroots riders to have the opportunity that is enjoyed so much by those who qualify for the grassroots championships at Badminton – getting to ride and compete at the same event as the top riders.

“Having the opportunity to walk the course and see William Fox-Pitt or ride past Kristina Cook as you go to warm up is an experience many grassroots riders aspire to. This new competition provides that kind of opportunity and only requires competitors to have run in three BE90 competitions to be eligible.” 

The competition begins on Thursday 21 October, with the top 10 percent of finishers qualifying for the BE90 Championships at Badminton in 2022. 

For more information on the competition, click here.